With the Marvel Cinematic Universe moving ahead full bore and Warner Bros. actively developing the expansion of the DC universe, Sony Pictures is looking to create their own mini-universe centered around Spider-Man. Sony Pictures Entertainment Co-Chairman Amy Pascal spoke today and revealed they have plans to create a number of new films based on "new heroes and villains" from the Spider-Man universe.

We've previously speculated that the 'Amazing Spider-Man' films have been heading towards a massive Sinister Six appearance, but there could be even bigger plans. According to The Wrap, while speaking to investors about the future of Sony Pictures, Pascal said:

We are going to access Marvel’s full world of Spider-Man characters, so be on the lookout for new heroes and villains.

There have been hints that 'Amazing Spider-Man 4' actually isn't a fourth film in the traditional sense and is instead the start of a new mythology, perhaps following one of the film's villains, or a new hero entirely. 'Amazing Spider-Man' director Marc Webb said at Comic-Con, "there may be elements that expand outside Spider-Man that could fulfill that fourth film" and star Andrew Garfield has said that he is only contracted through the three 'Spider-Man' movies.

Previously, Sony developed a Venom spinoff with 'Chronicle' director Josh Trank, but that project stalled when Trank left to direct 'Fantastic Four' at Fox. Beyond that, what other characters could Sony develop into standalone films?

It's unclear what character rights Sony has based on their complex Marvel contracts, but we have to think that Black Cat is in the mix. Morbius, the vampiric superhero, also seems like a decent bet. Beyond that, we're at a loss - Spider-Man's universe doesn't have much else in the way of heroes. (Ms. Marvel once dated Spider-Man, but we're pretty sure Marvel still retains the rights to her character on film.)

What we're really hoping will happen is that as Sony builds up the Spider-Man universe, they are able to work out some kind of agreement with Marvel and we somehow see Spider-Man teaming up with The Avengers (can you imagine if Spidey showed up as a secret post-credits scene in 'The Avengers 3'?).

What do you think? Are you excited for a whole universe of 'Spider-Man' films? What other characters would you like to see spunoff?